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He added that information on the Sanderstead Residents' Association website states the village changed in the early 1900s to provide homes.

Mr Morris said: "We are aware of the large number of objections to our proposed development scheme at Barrowsfield. Sanderstead Village, has grown and evolved hugely from being rural to suburban since the arrival of the railway and subsequent population growth demands.

"The scheme at Barrowsfield is simply part of the evolution of Sanderstead that has been taking place since the turn of the last century. It’s not unusual for residential planning applications to generate a negative reaction.

"Generally, whilst accepting the need for more housing, local residents would prefer it wasn’t in their own neighbourhood. Whilst this is completely understandable, it doesn’t contribute positively to the debate around increasing the housing supply that is widely accepted."

He added that the apartments would provide homes for people who can't afford the average price of a semi-detached house in Sanderstead.

He continued: "Due to its location the scheme is considered a gateway site. We have constructively engaged with the local authority to evolve the design and improve the quality of accommodation.

"Architecturally we have worked hard to produce a design that befits its gateway location. Clearly we accept that design and appearance are subjective matters.

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"What is not subjective is the substantive evidence that is available of the positive effects that regeneration and new build schemes have on communities. The economic benefits to the local high street alone will be substantial as will the job creation that comes from constructing the building."